As 2024 comes to a close, we’re highlighting some of our most popular and insightful blog posts from the past year. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a current homeowner, or simply someone looking to understand more about the mortgage process, AAFMAA Mortgage Services LLC (AMS) articles offer valuable information and tips to help you navigate the world of homeownership with confidence.
In our opinion, here are the Top 5 blog posts of 2024 from the AAFMAA Learning Hub, chosen for their relevance, insights, and practical advice.
1. How the VA’s Home Loan Entitlement Works
Interest rates are volatile and many AAFMAA Members want to know what a VA Home Loan can do for them. To help Members better understand and optimize their VA Home Loan entitlement, we asked Kevin Crooks, Jr., AMS Business Development Manager , to explain the process. Read the full post here.
2. 3 Pre-Listing Ideas to Get the Best Price for Your Home
An increasing inventory of available properties and softening interest rates have given homebuyers more of an edge in negotiating what they want in a home. Long before you start touching up paint or calling a real estate agent, there are a few things sellers may want to do to avoid surprises down the road. Read the full post here.
3. It’s Back to Homebuying 101 for Many This Fall
Toward the end of this year, there was a renewed excitement about interest rates that cooled along with the weather, tempting many military homebuyers to consider purchasing or refinancing their home. Consider this a refresher course on how to find a real estate agent qualified to work with military buyers and secure the best home loan based on your financial goals and needs. Read the full post here.
4. Where Americans Are Moving in 2024
In 2024, a noticeable trend emerged: Americans are increasingly relocating to the Southern Appalachian region, which encompasses states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. According to PODS long-distance moving data, this shift marks a departure from previous favorites like Florida and Texas. Read the full post here.
5. Should I Pay Extra on My Mortgage Each Month?
A lot of people ask AMS which benefits (if any) they would reap by paying a little more toward their mortgage payment each month. The simple answer is that it really depends on their individual situation and how that’s likely to change in the coming years. Plus, it depends on the interest rate and original terms of the loan. Read the full post here.
End-of-Year Bonus: AMS Homebuying Guide
We’d like to take a moment to introduce you to (or perhaps remind you of) one more resource: the AMSHomebuying Guide. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the mortgage process, this guide breaks everything down clearly and simply. From pre-qualification to closing day, our guide offers a detailed overview of what to expect when applying for a mortgage. It’s perfect for first-time buyers or anyone looking to refresh their knowledge of the process. Download the guide here.
Stay Informed with AMS
As we head into 2025, we’re committed to providing even more helpful content to guide you through the mortgage journey. Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or just exploring your options, the AAFMAA Learning Hub is your go-to resource for all things mortgage-related. Be sure to check back regularly for new blog posts and updates on the latest trends in the home financing world.
Feel free to dive into these posts and share them with friends and family who may be in need of some mortgage guidance. Happy reading and here's to a successful year of homeownership ahead!
From all of us at AMS, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.
We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re thinking about buying, ready to start home-shopping in earnest, or considering a refinance, an AMS Military Mortgage Advisor will be happy to provide you with an honest and fair comparison of your mortgage options, including a wide range of affordable mortgages designed to meet your needs.
Ensuring AAFMAA Members obtain the best mortgage possible is our mission. Get your free AMS mortgage assessment today or give us a call at 844-422-3622!